LYMPHOEDEMA & REMEDIAL THERAPIES CLINIC
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral to book an appointment?
No referral is required to make an appointment. However, if you are being treated for a medical condition, your GP or specialist may choose to refer you so that your care can be coordinated. It is helpful for the clinic to have access to your Medical History, so a letter from your GP listing these conditions and your medications would be beneficial.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Comfortable clothing is recommended. Depending on the area being treated, you may be asked to expose the affected area. Your comfort and privacy are always respected.
How long is a treatment session?
Treatment sessions usually run between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on your condition and the therapies being used as part of your care plan.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments varies depending on your condition, symptoms, and treatment goals. Some people benefit from occasional maintenance sessions, while others may require more frequent sessions initially, followed by a regular maintenance treatment plan.
Is treatment covered by private health insurance?
If your PHI provider covers you for Remedial Massage, you may be eligible for rebates depending on your level of cover. It is best to check directly with your insurer.
What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a specialised, gentle massage technique designed to stimulate the lymphatic system and assist the movement of lymph fluid through the body.
How does MLD help swelling conditions?
MLD works by stimulating lymphatic vessels to encourage the movement of fluid away from swollen areas and toward healthy drainage pathways.
Who can benefit from MLD?
MLD is commonly used for people experiencing swelling due to lymphoedema, lipoedema, chronic oedema, surgery, injury, or reduced lymphatic function.
Is MLD safe for long-term swelling conditions?
Yes. When performed by a trained lymphoedema therapist, MLD is a well-established treatment used as part of the management of lymphoedema, lipoedema and chronic oedema.
What does MLD feel like?
MLD is gentle and directional. It is quite different from traditional massage and is usually deeply relaxing.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
How is Remedial Massage different from relaxation massage?
Remedial massage focuses on treating specific areas of muscle tension, pain, or dysfunction. Techniques are tailored to address the underlying cause of symptoms.
What conditions can Remedial Massage help with?
Remedial massage may help with muscle tension, restricted movement, postural strain, and soft tissue discomfort.
Remedial Massage
Why are SIPC pumps used?
LYMPHOEDEMA
In lymphoedema, the lymphatic system is unable to effectively drain fluid. SIPC pumps help move this fluid out of the affected limb, reducing swelling, heaviness, and discomfort, and supporting long-term management.
CHRONIC OEDEMA
In long-standing swelling, fluid can become more difficult to shift and tissues may become firm or fibrotic. SIPC pumps assist in mobilising this fluid and to soften hardened fibrotic tissue, which can help maintain limb volume when used regularly.
What is a SIPC compression pump?
Sequential Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (SIPC) pumps use inflatable sleeves that gently inflate and deflate in a sequence to help move fluid through the limbs.
LIPOEDEMA
While lipoedema is primarily a disorder of fatty tissue, fluid can accumulate in the tissues and contribute to pain and heaviness. SIPC pumps may help reduce this fluid component, improving comfort and supporting tissue health.
VENOUS INSUFFICIENCY
When the veins have difficulty returning blood back to the heart, fluid can pool in the lower limbs. SIPC pumps help improve venous return, reduce swelling, and may assist in relieving symptoms such as aching or heaviness.
WOUND CARE
In patients with swelling and poor circulation, wound healing can be delayed. By improving fluid movement and circulation, SIPC pumps can help create a healthier environment for wound healing, particularly in conditions such as venous leg ulcers.
Who may benefit from compression pump therapy?
SIPC pumps are often used for people with lymphoedema, chronic swelling, lipoedema, venous insufficiency, non-healing wounds or reduced mobility.
What are the benefits of SIPC pumps?
Reduces swelling and limb volume
Improves comfort and sense of heaviness
Supports lymphatic and venous function
Assists in softening firm or fibrotic tissues
Can be used as part of a home management program
Can compression pumps be used at home?
Yes. Some patients may benefit from a home compression pump as part of their long-term management plan. Some companies rent SIPC Pumps. Talk to your therapist about this option.
SIPC Pumps
Why does scar tissue sometimes feel tight or uncomfortable?
Scar tissue can form adhesions that bind layers of tissue together, reducing flexibility and movement.
Scar Tissue Therapy
How can therapy help scar tissue?
Scar therapy techniques gently mobilise the tissue around the scar to help soften adhesions, improve mobility, and reduce discomfort.
When is compression bandaging used?
Compression bandaging is often used during the active treatment phase when swelling is more significant or difficult to manage. It may be recommended:
Following an initial assessment
During flare-ups or increased swelling
When preparing for compression garment fitting
When tissues are firm, dense, or fibrotic
As limb volume reduces and stabilises, bandaging is usually transitioned to a long-term compression garment for maintenance.
Compression Bandaging
What is cupping therapy?
Cupping therapy uses gentle suction cups placed on the skin to lift and mobilise the underlying tissues. The cups may remain in place for a short time or be gently glided across the skin to improve circulation, release tight tissues, and support the movement of fluid through the body.
Cupping Therapy
Does cupping hurt?
Cupping should not be painful. Most people describe the sensation as a gentle pulling or lifting of the skin. The pressure can always be adjusted to ensure the treatment remains comfortable.
Will cupping leave marks on my skin?
Sometimes cupping can leave temporary circular marks on the skin. These are not bruises but are caused by increased blood flow to the area. If marks occur, they usually fade within a few days. In many cases, especially with gentle dynamic cupping, marks may be minimal or absent.
What conditions can cupping help with?
Cupping may be used to help with:
Tight or restricted soft tissues
Areas of tissue congestion or fluid build-up
Fibrotic or hardened tissues
Scar tissue and adhesions
Muscle tension or discomfort
Myofascial release
It is often used as part of a broader treatment plan.
Can cupping help with scar tissue?
Yes. Cupping can gently lift and mobilise the tissues around a scar. This may help soften scar tissue, reduce tightness, and improve flexibility in the surrounding area, particularly when scars feel firm or restricted.
Is cupping safe for people with Lymphoedema or fluid swelling?
When used appropriately by a trained therapist, cupping can be used carefully to support tissue mobility and fluid movement. Techniques and pressure are always adapted to suit the individual and the condition being treated.
How long does a cupping treatment last?
Cupping is usually incorporated into a broader therapy session. The cups may be used for a few minutes on a specific area as part of your overall treatment plan.
Is there anything I should do after a cupping treatment?
It is helpful to drink water and keep the area gently moving after treatment. If temporary marks appear, they will naturally fade over several days.